Last week Entertainment Focus reported on the exciting news that classic Thunderbirds is to set to return, thanks to a crowdfunding project on Kickstarter. Today Anderson Entertainment have revealed that one of Thunderbirds’ very own iconic stars is now to be auctioned in aid of Alzheimer’s Society.
Although she stands at just 19 inches tall, the Supermarionation puppet figure is arguably one of the most famous leading ladies of the Sixties. Adorned in a blue satin dress with matching shoes and white feather boa, Lady Penelope of Thunderbirds fame is set to break through fundraising barriers as an online auction opens on Friday.
Donated to the son of her original creator, Gerry Anderson, the identical resin replica has glass eyes, a moving mechanical mouth and the same teeth as the original puppet that once graced British television screens in the Sixties. Originally voiced by Sylvia Anderson, Lady Penelope became a national institution and worldwide icon, depicted in television, film, radio, books and comics. A member of the public now has the opportunity to own the little lady in person, all for a worthy cause.
Proceeds of the sale will go directly to the Alzheimer’s Society. Jamie Anderson spoke of the loss of his father to the disease: “Sadly Dad passed away from complications related to his dementia on Boxing Day 2012. Before he died he fulfilled his ambition of raising awareness of dementia and funds for Alzheimer’s Society who do a tremendous job supporting people living with the condition and their families. He’d be so pleased to know of the sale of one of this fantastic replica of one of his most iconic characters in aid of a charity that was so close to his heart.”
Sabrina Sallis, Regional Fundraising Manager for Alzheimer’s Society, added: “We are very grateful to Jamie, and the fan who kindly donated Lady Penelope to this important cause. One in three people over 65 will develop dementia. It is more than just memory loss; it robs people of their lives and has a devastating impact on families and loved ones. In its hay day Thunderbirds was broadcast across 66 countries – it will be interesting to see where Lady Penelope will be heading on this next voyage!”
The Alzheimer’s Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them. The society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. They rely on voluntary donations to continue their work and methods for donation can be found via 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk.
Lady Penelope’s online auction goes live this Friday evening at 5pm via Ebay.
